Merlin glanced over at Will, who came in with a scowl on his face.
"What's wrong?" Merlin asked, putting down his book.
Will shook his head, facing the prince. "It's Arthur. He was training with Morris, who is hopeless with a sword."
Merlin grimaced. "He's still doing that? I told him to train with his knights."
Will sighed. "Well, poor Morris is about to collapse."
Merlin smirked. "Maybe you should take his place."
Will groaned, sitting down in a chair. "I wouldn't have time, with all my duties."
Merlin sat up, putting his spell book underneath his pillows. "You're not the only one. Even Arthur has duties."
Will leaned against the table with his elbow. "Must be hard for him, with all the girls and the glory."
Merlin shrugged. "He is the future king. People expect so much of him. He's under a lot of pressure. That's why I'm glad I'm the youngest: I don't have to be king."
Will got up, grinning. "Lucky you. Although I'm sure many would kill to become king."
Merlin's gaze darkened. "Most definitely."
Merlin looked out the window to see the people milling about, mostly knights and servants. Today was the tournament, a fight to see who was the best. Arthur was participating, but Merlin had backed out, not interested.
Arthur was always crabby around this time, so Merlin decided he should help Arthur. He was probably yelling at Morris. Merlin let himself in, wincing at the annoyed tone Arthur was directing at his servant.
Merlin walked up to his brother, dismissing Morris with a glance.
Arthur looked at his brother with slight relief. "Merlin. I thought I'd have to endure him dressing my armor the entire time."
Merlin tsked as he tightened the chest armor. "You really should be more kind to your servant. Morris is scared to death of you."
Arthur grumbled something unintelligible.
"So, Arthur, are you nervous?" Merlin asked, smirking, knowing this would rile him up.
"I don't get nervous."
"Really?" Merlin said teasingly. "I thought everybody got nervous."
Arthur growled and yelled, "Will you shut up?"
Merling grinned. "Yep, I knew you were nervous."
Arthur sighed. "Sorry, Merlin. Just…anticipation, you know?"
Merlin nodded. "Yeah, anticipation. Are you sure that's all?" He grabbed his brother's red cloak and put it on Arthur, just as he said, "Yes. It's just anticipation."
Merlin stepped back, hand on his hips. "Right. Here's your helmet."
Arthur took the helmet Merlin offered him and gave a nod, before turning and making to walk out of the room.
Merlin cleared his throat. "Aren't you forgetting something?"
Arthur turned around, confused. There was a moment of silence before, "I don't want a hug, Merlin."
Merlin raised an eyebrow. "Your sword?" He gestured to the silver sword laying on the table.
Arhtur opened his mouth and then closed it, walking to the table. "RIght. I knew that. I was just testing you."
Merlin shook his head. "Anticipation. Yeah, right." He muttered as Arthur glided out of the room.
Merlin sat in the stands next to Morgana. The drums sounded ominous, and very soon the knights all walked in, carrying their helmets in one arm. The crowd cheered and applauded, all spotting their favorite knights to cheer on. Merlin spotted Arthur, sauntering proudly, and not looking a bit nervous.
"He's a good actor," Merlin said, turning to Morgana.
"What?" She asked, bewildered.
"He doesn't look very nervous, but I know he is."
Morgana just nodded, not really following.
The knights all lined up, facing the Royal Box. Uther walked in the arena with a swish of his cloak.
"Knights of the realm, it's a great honor to welcome you to the tournament at Camelot," Uther said, voice strong and loud. "Over the next three days, you will come to put your bravery to the test, your skills as warriors, and of course, to challenge the reigning champion - my son Prince Arthur."
Merlin grinned as mostly everybody turned to look at Arthur, but then frowned as he noticed one particular knight dressed in yellow scowling.
"Only one can have the honor of being crowned champion." Uther continued. "And he will receive a prize of one thousand gold pieces."
A guard opened a box filled with the prize money at the king's words, and the crowd murmured in delight.
Merlin's eyes drew back to the Knight in Yellow, who was staring at the box with luster.
"It is in combat that we learn a knight's true nature - whether he is indeed a warrior or a coward." Uther looked at the knights, and then raised his hand. "The tournament begins!"
The knights all bowed to Uther as the crowd broke into cheers. Morgana clapped loudly, making Merlin cover his ears.
"Why are you so happy? I didn't think you'd enjoy fighting." Merlin asked her, once she stopped clapping.
She glanced at him. "Whoever wins gets to accompany me to the feast. These are honorable men, not at all like the men we have here in Camelot." She made a face.
Merlin gaped at her. "I am offended. What about me? Aren't I considered honorable?"
Morgana glared at him while Gwen stifled a giggle.
The knights all filed out, but Arthur and Uther stayed. Uther leaned close and whispered something to Arthur.
Merlin watched his brother's face closely, as he looked dejected, and then a little horrified.
Arthur stood straight and proud as an opponent stood across from him. Two guards came walking up to them with two shields to give to either of them. Arthur and the knight took a shield and gave a nod, before jumping into action. As the two knights sparred, Uther came and sat down on his chair, next to Merlin.
"It is unfortunate you did not want to participate, Merlin." He said, watching Arthur.
Merlin sighed. His father constantly tried to get him to fight more. Merlin knew that the king thought that knowing how to fight would gain you the most respect, but the prince thought differently.
A king must rule with laws and words, along with kindness and fairness, not just battle skills.
Merlin shuddered to think of all the responsibilities a king must have.
"I'm not interested in battle, Father."
Uther just huffed and continued watching his eldest son.
Arthur won all his battles, and as soon as the tournament ended for the day, Merlin got up to congratulate him.
"Need a bit of help?" The younger prince asked, walking in on Arthur struggling to take his armor off.
Arthur didn't reply.
Merlin was silent as well, and began losing the straps. After a moment he spoke again, "Who is the knight in yellow?"
Arthur grunted. "Valiant."
Merlin nodded, focusing on the straps. "He looks pretty handy with a sword."
Knight Valiant had also won all of his battles.
Arthur grunted again. Merlin continued the removal of Arthur's armor in silence but looked up when the knight in question walked past, huffing.
Valiant halted when he saw them. "May I offer my congratulations on your victories today?"
Arthur stared him down for a second before grimacing. "Likewise."
Valiant nodded. "I'll see you at the reception this evening." He said, and walked off.
The two princes watched the knight and his servant walk off.
"Creep," Merlin muttered, still watching him.
Arthur scoffed in agreement.
That night, the Knights introduced themselves to the royal family and enjoyed the reception.
Knight Valiant stood in front of the king and introduced himself, smiling charmingly. "Knight Valiant of the Western Isles, my lord."
"I saw you fighting today. You have a very aggressive style," Uther responded, nodding his head in approval.
"As my lord said, to lose is to be disgraced."
Uther smirked, liking the knight. "I couldn't agree more. Knight Valiant, may I present my son, Prince Merlin, and the Lady Morgana, my ward."
Merlin nodded at Valiant and he bowed back. Then the knight stood in front of Morgana, smiling. She smiled back. Merlin watched warily. There was just something about Valiant.
The knight bent down and kissed Morgana's hand.
"My lady," He said.
"I saw you competing today," Morgana said, grinning.
"I saw you watching," Valiant replied. There was a moment of silence where they stared at each other before Valiant glanced away. Merlin followed his eyes to Arthur, who was staring at them.
"I understand the tournament champion has the honor of escorting the Lady to the feast."
Morgana smiled again, seemingly taken by the brave knight in front of her. "That's correct."
"Then I will give everything to win the tournament,"
Morgana dipped her head, beaming. Valiant nodded back, then said, "My lady," and let go of her hand, walking away. Morgana watched him go.
"Does Valiant seem… I don't know, off?" Merlin whispered to Will.
Will watched the knight. "He did seem a little creepy to me,"
Merlin nodded in agreement.
Soon Arthur was next, and he bowed to his father.
"Arthur," Uther said.
"Father," Arthur said in turn, and Merlin grabbed Arthur's shoulders. "Good job, today, prat."
Arthur rolled his eyes, and then Morgana had her turn. "They all seem rather impressed with Knight Valiant," She looked teasingly at him.
"They're not the only ones," Arthur replied, staring at Morgana with a raised eyebrow. Merlin hid a snort.
But Morgana only smiled at Arthur. "Jealous, are we?"
"I don't see anything to be jealous of," Arthur said calmly.
Morgana's smile faltered, and Arthur walked away.
Merlin finally snorted, and Morgana whirled around to him. "It's not funny, Merlin! Could Arthur be any more annoying? I do so hope Valiant wins the tournament."
Gwen turned to her unbelievingly. "You don't really mean that."
"Yes, I do," Morgana replied confidently.
Merlin rolled his eyes. "I'll believe that when pigs fly, Morgana."
She just glared at him.
The next morning Will went to get Merlin's armor, hoping to polish it in case something were to arise. He gathered it all and was about to pick it up when a sudden hissing sounded. Will opened his mouth, but then closed it, opting to take a closer look.
The hissing sounded again, venomously. Will followed the sound warily, and then gaped, surprised when it led him to a shield. Three snakes were printed on the shield, and then Will let out a soft yell when one of the snakes blinked. Will bent down closer, and was just about to touch it when a sword found itself on Will's chest. Will glanced up, and stared. Knight Valiant was holding the sword, looking angry.
"Can I help you with something, boy?" Valiant asked, the sword still dangerously perched on Will's chest.
Will shook his head, a slight tremble in his voice as he said, "No, I'm all good." He let out a non-convincing laugh, and said while backing away and to the Prince's armor, "I-I was just getting my master's armor."
Knight Valiant followed him, sword still outstretched. "Then you best be on your way," Valiant growled.
Will nodded, still looking at the sword before turning, gathering Merlin's armor. "Right, yeah. No problem!"
Will stopped himself from running from the armory, choosing a nice, steady pace. He sighed in relief back in Merlin's chambers. Will grimaced, however, of the memory of angry Valiant. The incident had certainly ranked up both Will and Merlin's suspicions.
Merlin dressed himself, anxious for today's tournament. Arthur was reigning champion, and for good reason, but with Valiant last night, Merlin was growing increasingly uneasy that maybe Valiant had bad intentions.
Merlin looked around for Will, but he hadn't seen him since the reception last night. Merlin's armor was on the table, for reasons he didn't know, but Will was nowhere to be seen.
"Will?" Merlin called out, curious if Will was avoiding him, or was just too busy.
No response, so Merlin shrugged, and walked out, towards the arena.
Merlin sat down in his seat, and clapped and cheered as Arthur walked into the arena. Uther applauded, and Merlin saw Arthur looking a little happily at their Father.
The fight began, and Merlin watched closely, scared for Arthur. But it was in vain, for Arthur won every one of his battles. However, so did Valiant.
In one of the last battles, an intense fight between Valiant and Ewan, another knight, Merlin noticed something not quite right. It was hard to concentrate, especially with Morgana cheering and booing so loudly Merlin had to resist the urge to clasp his hands on his ears again. However, it was clear that Ewan was more than a match for Valiant. The two were striking against each other, when Valiant swung his shield around, knocking Ewan to the ground. The knight fell on top, holding Ewan there for moments, before dealing a last blow, injuring Ewan. Morgana clapped, smiling, but Merlin frowned. Something was wrong.
Sir Ewan was not getting up, but was lying on the ground, eyes closed.
"Will, I think Ewan's badly hurt."
Gauis had reached the knight, and was checking him over. He then called something, and two guards came, carrying the knight out of the arena.
Merlin turned to Will again. "Let's go check on him." The prince nodded at Uther, and the king seemed a little angry that Merlin was leaving, but didn't object.
Merlin walked into Gaius's chambers, Will trailing behind.
"How is he?"
Gaius glanced up, dipping his head in a show of respect. "Sire. It's most odd. Look at this."
Merlin and Will crowded around the unconscious knight. The physician pointed to Ewans neck, showing two small points. "See these two small wounds? It looks like a snakebite."
Merlin frowned, turning to Gaius. Will spoke before Merlin could. "How could he have been bitten by a snake? He was injured in a sword fight."
"Yet his symptoms are consistent with poisoning - slow pulse, fever, parazasis."
Merlin got up, following Gaius. "Can you heal him?"
"Well, if it is a snakebite, I'll have to extract venom from the snake that bit him to make an antidote."
"What happens if he doesn't get the antidote?" Merlin asked, fearing the answer.
"Then I'm afraid there's nothing more I can do for him. He's going to die."
Merlin bit back a gasp, glancing at the sickly knight. "He was fighting Knight Valiant."
Will drew in a breath. "He was!"
"What's that?" Gaius asked, tending to the knight.
"Nothing." the prince said quickly.
Merlin gestured to Will, and they left Gaius to try to keep Ewan alive.
The prince pulled Will behind a pillar. "Ewan was fighting Valiant when he was bitten. Have you seen anything suspicious?"
Will nodded. "Yes, actually. This morning I was gathering your armor, and heard snakes hissing. I swear I saw one of the snake's on Valiant's armor blink!"
Merlin's eyes clouded. "We have to keep an eye on Valiant. But I have to go, Father will get angry."
Will nodded, about to head back to Gaius chambers, before Merlin grabbed Will's arm. He stopped, looking into the prince's eyes questionly. "Don´t do anything stupid, Will. For now, we have to assume Valiant is dangerous."
Will searched his master's eyes before nodding. Merlin kept a grip on the servant's arm before breathing out and turning around, walking to his chambers.
Will watched the prince go, before muttering a quick "sorry, Merlin," and hurrying toward Valiant's chambers. Will quickly hid, for Valiant had walked in with his shield. Will carefully followed, gulping at what he was about to do. He peered through the door, blinking in the candlelight. Will watched as Valiant took out a mouse from a small box. Will jerked back, unsure if the suspicious knight had seen him or not. Not hearing any protest, Will kept watching. His eyes widened as Valiant muttered, "dinnertime," and then knelt down to his shield. Three snakes came out of the shield and gulped down the mouse. Looking disgusted and terrified, Will ran away, not seeing Valiant whip out his sword and follow him. Will ran, and then hid behind the wall. He waited a few seconds then hurried behind a pillar as he saw Valiant's shadow. The knight looked around, before going back to his chambers.
Will breathed out a sigh of relief before realizing what he'd just seen.
Merlin was reading in his chambers, a book about magic, hoping to find something that would link Valiant, snakes, and swordfighting, when Will burst through the door.
Merlin looked up alarmed, hiding his book before taking it back out, realizing it was only Will.
"Will! What are you doing? Have you ever heard of knocking?"
"I've just seen the snakes on Valiant's shield come alive."
Merlin started, and then sat up fully, disregarding his book. "He's using magic?"
Will nodded. "Are you sure?" Merlin asked.
Will swallowed, looking disgusted. "The snake ate a mouse - one swallow, straight down."
Merlin stood up and started pacing. "Ewan was fighting Valiant when he collapsed. It must have been one of the snakes on the shield." Merlin stood still, before going to the door. "I have to tell Arthur." Will nodded, but then Merlin stopped. "Wait, Will, is there any chance you might have been mistaken?"
Will shook his head. Merlin suddenly growled, startling the servant. "We don't have any proof. How will I explain how you were in Valiant's chambers?"
Will shrugged. "I don't know. But how does that matter? Valiant is using magic to cheat in the tournament! He could kill Arthur!"
Merlin groaned, holding his head with his hands. "I know, I know. But I can't just accuse a knight of using magic without proof."
WIll was silent for a moment, before saying, "Then what are we going to do?"
Merlin didn't answer, then said slowly, a grin forming, "Then we get proof."
Will gaped at Merlin. "Now?!"
Merlin frowned. "No. It's too late. We'll do it tomorrow."
Merlin stood in front of his chair in the arena the next morning. Gwen stood next to him, waiting for Morgana.
"Are you telling me he has to fight that?" She muttered, not thinking she was overheard.
The man she was referring to was a massive man, big and tall.
Merlin smiled at her. "Worried?"
Gwen flushed. Merlin grinned. "Don't be. He's strong as a bear, but he's slow. Arthur's fast."
Just then Morgana arrived, and both her and Merlin sat down, cheering with the crowd as Arthur came in. Morgana seemed flustered, and Merlin nudged her.
"You're not worried, are you?"
Morgana replied with a weak "No."
Everybody cheered as Arthur won the fight as easily as breathing.
As soon as Valiant came on, however, Merlin and Will shared a look, and leaned closer, hoping to spot something. There was nothing though, Valiant had beat the man just as easily as Arthur.
Gwen shared an impressive look with Morgana.
The knight, however, had been hurt, and as the guards towed the man away, Merlin gulped uneasily as the keeper of scores raised it so that everyone knew: There was only one battle left. Arthur and Valiant.
"Valiants going to fight Arthur in the final," Merlin said to Morgana and Will. They both swallowed.
Then just to Will, Merlin whispered, "He'll use the shield to kill him. We need that proof as soon as possible."
Back in Merlin's chambers, the prince sat in a chair, lost in thought.
Will came in, jerking Merlin from his daydreams. "How are we going to get that proof?"
Merlin was silent for a moment. "We need someone to cure Ewan, because he'll be able to tell Father about Valiant, and we need proof at the same time. So, we need a snakehead."
Will gave a cry of delight. "That's exactly what we need! How are we going to get it though?"
Merlin smirked at Will. "Easy. All the knights are at the banquet. All I have to do is sneak inside Valiant's chambers, and cut off a head." Merlin stood up, and grabbed the ceremonial sword hanging above his fireplace. Then he looked at Will. "Stay here. I should be back soon."
But Will shook his head. "No, Merlin. I'll go. I'm a servant, at least I'll have an excuse, and I won't look too suspicious. But if the prince is found in a knight's chambers…?"
Merlin sighed, knowing that Will had a point. "Okay, you'll go. But be careful. I don't want to have to bring another patient to Gaius."
Will nodded solemnly, took the sword Merlin offered him, and walked out the door without a glance. Merlin sighed in worry.
Meanwhile, Will peeked around the wall to spy on the feast happening.
Uther was pouring the wine. Will listened as the king said, "So Valiant, do you think you stand a chance of defeating my son?"
Arthur looked up, interested in the answer.
"He is a great warrior, my lord. I do hope to be a worthy opponent."
Uther looked as if he was smiling, but it was more of a grimace. "You should stay in Camelot after the tournament. I could do with more knights like you."
Arthur looked a little hurt at this, glancing away as Valiant answered, "I'd be honored, my lord."
Will crept back, sure that Valiant would stay, before making his way to the knight's chambers.
Will hesitated a little bit, but then pushed open the door. It didn't budge at first, and the servant was scared that it was locked, but then wondered why it would be locked from the inside when nobody was in there, so Will pushed harder and the door swung open.
Once Will was in, he spotted the shield almost instantly. It was sitting there, on a chair, ready to be used. Will drew Merlin's sword, approaching the chair cautiously. Will hit one snake, then the other, but when nothing happened he crouched next to it, wondering how magic worked. Merlin was the professional, not him.
Just then, Will stood quickly as he heard a door open. He stood frozen, as footsteps came closer.
A shadow moved, and Will's eyes widened as he realized that it was a shadow from a snake. He whirled around, gasping as one of the snakes bent its head to strike. Will reflexictly swung the sword, and was more than surprised when the sword hit its mark and a head dropped to the ground. However, Will was not out of the woods yet, as the two remaining snakes drew themselves out of the shield. Will grabbed the head and ran, not looking behind him.
Valiant watched the servant boy go.
Merlin and Will watched as Gaius extracted the venom from the snake, disgust clear on their faces. Gaius looked at the bottle with something akin to joy, and said, "I'll start preparing the antidote."
"I'm going to tell Arthur," Merlin announced.
Gaius gave a slight nod. "You'll need this, sire." Gaius threw the snake head to Merlin, who fumbled to catch it.
As Merlin and Will walked to Arthur's chambers, Merlin gave a congratulatory look to Will.
"What you did was very brave Will."
"Thank you, Merlin."
The prince stopped in front of Arthur's chambers. "I'll do this alone. You're dismissed for the night. Go help Gaius if you can."
Will gave a nod and started off. Merlin knocked on the door and let himself in. Arthur looked up, finishing his mouthful.
"Do you ever knock?" Arthur asked, pushing his plate of food away.
"Arthur, I have to tell you something."
The first-born prince gave a concerned look, and Merlin began his tale.
"Will?" Arthur asked incredulously.
Merlin nodded, annoyed with his brother.
Arthur glanced at the snake on the table. "Will chopped its head off."
"Yes Arthur, he's not useless. Ewan was bitten by a snake from the shield when fighting Valiant."
Arthur gave a look that clearly stated he wasn't really believing this.
"You can talk to Gaius, you can see the puncture wounds on Ewan's neck where the snake bit him." Merlin stared at Arthur, who stared back, listening. "Ewan was beating him. He had to cheat."
Arthur sighed. "But Valiant wouldn't dare use magic in Camelot!"
Merlin gave him a look. "I use magic, and I'm the king's son. Ewan was pinned under Valiants shield, anyway, so nobody could see the snake bite him."
"Are you sure, Merlin?"
"Arthur." Merlin stared at his brother. "I'm your brother. Last time something magic-related happened I was right. I wouldn't just lie to you, I'm telling you the truth."
Arthur let out a deep sigh, nodding. "Okay. What do you want me to do about it?"
Merlin shrugged. "Can you lead the court against him? You're Father's heir, and the knight. I think Father would listen to you more quickly. Besides, it's a threat against you."
"Alright. Do you have a witness?"
Merlin nodded. "Ewan and Will. Gaius is preparing the antidote now. Soon, Ewan will wake up and he can tell Father."
Arthur nodded, putting a hand on his brother's shoulder.
The next morning, as Gaius gave Ewan another dose of antidote, the knight awoke, staring at Gaius, before proclaiming urgently, "There was a snake on his shield."
Gaius nodded. Ewan looked confused, rising as he said, "It came alive."
The physician put a hand on Ewan. "You're weak. The snake's venom is still in your system."
The knight didn't listen. "I must warn Arthur."
"Arthur already knows, he's requested an audience with the king. Now they'll want to talk to you."
Ewan just looked at him. Gaius got up. "Now, I need some herbs, I'll be right back."
The knight blinked wearily, and then closed his eyes, choosing to sleep. He didn't notice the snake slithering toward him until he felt something crawl into his sheets. The snake reared its head and struck.
Uther strode into the throne room, walking to his throne. "Why have you summoned the court?"
Arthur and Merlin walked forward. "I believe knight Valiant is using a magic shield to cheat in the tournament," Arthur stated strongly.
Morganaga glanced at Gwen in shock, as everyone else muttered.
Uther glared at Valiant. "Knight Valiant, what do you have to say to this?"
"My lord, this is ridiculous, I've never used magic. Does your son have any evidence to support these outrageous accusations?"
"Do you have evidence?"
"I do," Arthur said.
Merlin handed the snake head to Uther, before standing back with his brother.
Sir Valiant glared at him. Uther examid the snake head cautiously.
Back in Gaius' chamber, the physician was stirring something in a pot. "I'm afraid this potion tastes like toad-water, but it will get you back on your feet." Just then Gaius looked up and stared in horror at the knight. "Ewan?"
He stepped closer, feeling for a pulse. Not finding one, Gaius stared in horror.
In the throne room, Uther asked for Valiant's shield. The knight handed it over willingly.
Merlin and Arthur both slid their swords out, wary.
"Be careful, my lord," Arthur warned.
Just then Gaius came in. Both glanced back. Arthur looked for the knight, and when he didn't find him, whispered to Merlin. "We need Ewan, to find out what's going on."
Merlin nodded, walking over to Gaius.
"As you can see my lord, it's just an ordinary shield."
Arthur scoffed, holding out his arms. "He's not going to let everyone see the snakes come alive."
Uther looked angry. "Then how am I to know what you say is true?"
Arthur faced his father head on. "I have a witness." He declared.
Everybody looked on in confusion. "Knight Ewan," Arthur continued, "Was bitten by one of the snakes on the shield. Its venom made him grievously ill, however, he received an antidote, and he will confirm that Knight Valiant is using magic."
"Where is this witness?"
"He should be here," Arthur turned to Merlin, who was looking angry.
Merlin glanced at Arthur and then walked up. "I'm afraid the witness is dead," Merlin said, looking angry and a little scared.
Uther turned to them both. "So you have no proof to support the allegations? Have you seen Valiant using magic?"
"No," Replied Arthur helplessly.
Uther sighed, and began to turn around. Merlin jumped in, seeing that this was the end. "But, Father, my servant fought-"
"Your servant?" Uther said in utter distaste. "You make these outrageous accusations against a knight on the word of your servant?!"
Merlin stood his ground. "I believe he's telling the truth!"
Valiant joined in. "My lord, am I really to be judged by some hearsay by a boy-"
"I know he saw those snakes come alive, he wouldn't lie to me!"
Uther growled and everybody fell silent.
"My lord," Valiant said, his voice confident. "If your son makes these accusations because he's afraid to fight me, then I will graciously accept his withdrawal."
Arthur looked in alarm. Uther stalked forward. "Is this true?" He asked in a dangerously calm tone. "Do you wish to withdraw from the tournament?"
"No." Arthur all but shouted.
"Then what am I to make of these allegations?"
Arthur swallowed, looking around before saying hesitantly, "Obviously there has been a misunderstanding. I withdraw the allegation against Knight Valiant. Please accept my apology."
Merlin glowered, still angry, but Valiant smiled victoriously. "Accepted."
Arthur stalked out of the room, Merlin closely behind, but not before glaring at Valiant. He just smiled wickedly.
"How could he just let Valiant go? I mean your life is at stake, he can't just dismiss you!"
"Merlin," Arthur tried, but Merlin didn't hear.
"We're his sons, why won't he believe us? And did you see the way he acted? It was like we were doing him an injustice and-"
"Merlin!" Arthur shouted, fed up with Merlin's ranting.
The prince stopped. "I'm going to make this right," Merlin said, before running out of the room.
Arthur cast a worried glance behind him.
Twilight found Merlin sitting on the steps outside the castle. He stared at the people going about, deep in his thoughts.
"Prince Merlin." Gwen curtised.
Merlin looked up. "Hello, Gwen."
The serving maid smiled, but stayed there. Merlin sighed, and petted the ground next to him. "Sit, Gwen. What do you want?"
Gwen flushed, and sat down, picking her dress. "Is it really true what you said about Valiant using magic?"
Merlin nodded, still angry.
Gwen gasped. "What are you going to do?"
"Why does everything seem to think I need to do something about it?" He asked, seemingly amused and curious.
Gwen answered with rare familiarity, not caring at the moment that Merlin was the prince. "Because it is. Isn't it?"
Merlin didn't respond, so Gwen continued. "You have to show everyone that you were right and they were wrong."
Merlin smiled bitterly. "Hm. And how do I do that?" He asked.
"I don't know." Gwen suddenly realized she was talking to the prince again, and flushed, eyes back on her dress.
The prince nodded, expecting that answer. He turned away, glancing at a statue of a dog. "That's it." He muttered, an idea coming to him. Merlin stood up suddenly.
Gwen stood up as well. "Sire! Where are you going?"
Merlin tried to pick up the statue, but finding it too heavy, turned to Gwen, who was standing there, bewildered. "Do you have a wheelbarrow?"
Merlin wheeled the marble dog to his chambers where Will stared in confusion. "What are you doing with that?"
"I'm going to make the snake's come out themselves."
Will didn't reply, too confused, but Merlin reached for his magic book that he hid under a floorboard under his bed. Flipping through it, he found the page he needed rather quickly, and was soon reciting the spell over and over.
"Berbay othoday arisan quickem," Merlin tried, over and over but it was to no avail.
Arthur laying on the ground. Valiant grinning victoriously, swinging his sword down upon Arthur.
"Arthur!" Morgana woke with a gasp. She walked over to the window to see Arthur swinging his sword in the courtyard, practicing.
Merlin recanted again, trying all different angles and ways, but he could not get it. Merlin eventually gave up, and walked over to Arthur's chambers.
"Arthur?" He asked tentatively.
The prince looked up, but then looked back down, staring at the flames.
"I'm sorry, Arthur, I can't do it. Don't fight Valiant tomorrow. He'll use the shield against you."
"I know." Arthur sighed.
"Withdraw, Arthur please!"
"Don't you understand?" Arthur asked, looking up. "The people expect at least one of their princes to fight. How can I lead people into battle if they think I'm a coward?"
Merlin scoffed, angry now that Arthur would let his pride get in the way. "Valiant will kill you! If you fight, you die!"
"Then I die."
Merlin stared at his brother. "How can you go out and fight like that?"
"Because I have to," Arthur responded almost sadly. "It's my duty."
"I won't let you die!" Merlin replied determidly, and marched out the room. He looked out a window as he marched down the hall, noting with alarm that it was almost sunrise. The prince fumed as he walked down the hall. How could Arthur just decide to die like that?
Merlin was taken from his thoughts when a pair of hands suddenly grabbed him and pulled him into chambers. The prince spun around to find Valiant scowling.
The knight stalked forward, until he was closer than comfortable. "Did you think that you could ruin my plan? Although Uther doesn't believe it now, he's sure to come to his senses soon enough, and then everything will be for nothing. I never dreamed of killing both princes, but lucky me, I suppose." The knight grinned.
Merlin scowled, scared, but unwilling to let it show. "What are you doing? I'll charge you with assault and have you thrown in the dungeons." He stated bravely.
Valiant grinned wickedly. "Oh, I don't think you will. See, you'll never get the chance."
Merlin eyed the person in front of him. "What are you talking about?"
Valiant would never kill the prince, would he? Somebody would notice, it'd be too risky.
Valiant grabbed Merlin's tunic and shoved him, the prince falling hard, banging his head on something hard. The prince groaned as black spots filled his vision, and when he could see again, the knight was eye level. "Kill him," the knight said.
The prince gasped when something sharp pricked his neck, and he felt his strength drain out of him, vision flickering as his head greeted the ground. Merlin tried to open his eyes, scream for help, anything, but it was too late. He couldn't even feel the cold, hard floor anymore.
The last thing Merlin heard was footsteps and the lock of a door before everything went black, and he knew no more.
Arthur looked out of the window as Morris did his armor, not saying anything. Suddenly Morris left, and Arthur turned to find Morgana tying up his armor instead.
"Let me," She said, and continued.
Arthur stared at her, curious as to how she knew how to do armor, when she read his question in his eyes. "I used to help my father with his armor." She explained.
"Thanks," Arthur replied softly as Morgana handed him his helmet. The prince started walking out, but turned when Morgana called his name.
"Be careful," She said, flustered.
Arthur gave a nod. "See you at the feast."
The prince walked into the arena, mindful of the cheering. He looked for his brother, wanting to give some reassurance, but frowned when he noticed Merlin wasn't seated next to Uther.
Valiant already stood there, and Arthur turned to face him after nodding to the king.
They drew their swords and fell into the stance.
Valiant struck first. Their fight became a dance, dodging, striking, parrying. It was obvious that Arthur was better than Valiant, but the knight's aggressiveness gave him a chance. Nevertheless, Arthur knew that the violentness would soon give way. Already he could feel Valiant tiring.
Everybody was on the edge of their seats, some hurraing when Arthur struck, and some cheering Valiant.
Arthur gave a heavy blow, and Valiants helmet fell off. Arthur took his off too, wanting a fair fight.
Valiant suddenly gained upper control when he stepped hard on Arthur's foot and then hit him in the face with his shield. Arthur went down.
Valiant gave a vicious yell and tried to kill Arthur with his sword, but at the last minute the prince rolled out of the way, jumping up in horror. It wasn't just sparring anymore. Valiant wanted to kill the prince.
Valiant grinned maliciously, disarming Arthur in one move. The prince desperately launched himself at the knight, trying to keep the sword away.
Valiant just pushed Arthur up against the wall, trapping him.
"Kill him," Valiant muttered darkly, grinning. Arthur's eyes went wide as two snakes crept out of the shield. Arthur quickly went limp, and Valiant dropped him in surprise of the dead weight. The prince rolled to the ground and swung his leg, tripping Valiant. His shield went flying, the two snakes still writhing around.
Uther stood up in shock. "He is using magic!" He declared.
Morgana and Gwen stood up too, horrified that Arthur might not win this fight.
Arthur distanced himself, watching the knight as he picked his shield back up.
"Now they see you for what you really are," Arthur said.
The knight just chuckled. Arthur shivered. This knight was a maniac. Arthur's eyes widened as the two snakes slithered off the shield and onto the ground.
"Kill him!" Valiant shouted again.
Arthur backed away as the snakes reared their heads. Morgana looked around for something that could help her foster brother and grinned as she saw the swords next to her. Grabbing one, she yelled Arthurs name and threw it to him.
Arthur caught it, and in one swift motion, depacsatied the two snakes.
The snakes were gone, but Valiant was still there, smiling grimly.
Arthur whirled his sword, on the balls of his feet. Valiant fought, but he was no match for Arthur.
"Looks like I'll be going to the feast after all," Arthur whispered to the dying knight.
Arthur pulled out his sword with a grunt, and Valiant fell, dead.
The crowd cheered wildly. Arthur gasped for breath, looking at his father. Uther nodded in approval. Morgana stood there, relief on her face, while Gwen applauded.
Arthur smiled, but there was something nagging him. Why was Merlin not there, clapping with the rest?
"Will, have you seen Merlin?" Arthur asked, opening the door to Merlin's chambers. He looked around, but only found a…statue of a dog?
Will walked closer, concern on his face. "I'm not sure, I thought he was with you."
Something close to panic grabbed hold of Arthur.
"I'll ask Father, then." he declared, and walked over to the king's chambers, despite the voice telling him to run, run and find your brother!
The prince knocked on the door, face set when Uther's voice invited him in.
"Ah, Arthur." The king was sitting at his table, eating. "I wanted to talk to your brother."
Arthur stood there, surprised.
The king ate a grape before saying impatiently, "Get Merlin, he wasn't at the tournament today, and I'd like to know why."
Arthur gulped. "That's why I came, Father. No one has seen him since early this morning when he begged me not to fight."
Uther frowned. "Tell everyone in the castle to keep an eye out. He's most likely reading in the library one of those silly stories."
It was true that Merlin spent a lot of his time in the library, reading 'those silly stories,' as Uther liked to call them, but Arthur could not push down the feeling that something was very wrong.
"My lord, I feel there is something more."
Uther sighed. "What do you suggest I do, Arthur?"
Arhtur looked into his fathers eyes, trying to convey the wrongness he felt. "Call a search party."
For a second Arthur thought he saw worry in Uther's eyes, but then it was gone.
Uther was silent for a moment before standing. "Alright. If you really think something's wrong, I'll call a search party."
Arthur looked in surprise before following his father.
Uther called for a search party in the entire castle, settling down in his throne once Leon had nodded, and marched out the door.
Minutes passed, and then Morgana came in, confused.
"Uther, what is going on? Guards are everywhere. Valiant is dead, is he not?"
Arthur looked over to the king, who looked distantly at the door.
"Merlin is missing, Morgana. It's a search party."
Morgana gaped at him, but just then a maid burst into the room.
"My lords!" She gasped. "We found Prince Merlin!"
Arthur sagged, relieved.
"Where?" Uther asked, a deep frown on his face.
"Sir Valiants chambers, sire." The maid had a look of terror on her face. "You must come at once, Prince Merlin isn't well!"
Uther stood up abruptly as Arthur went cold. Valiant's chambers?
"He's ill?" Uther asked ruthlessly.
The maid shrunk under the king's glare but nodded. Uther marched to the door. "Somebody call Gaius!" He yelled, already out the door.
The maid rushed off. Arthur stood there in shock, then glanced at Morgana's horrified face and took off after Uther. Morgana soon joined him. Although it was only a few minutes, it seemed hours until the three reached the previous knight's chambers. The king strode in without hesitation, but Arthur paused. What was he going to see?
Morgana pushed her foster brother, and Arthur reluctantly stepped forward. Uther was leaning over a clearly unconscious Merlin, wanting to do something, but not knowing what.
"Merlin!" Arthur shouted, and crashed to his knees on the other side of his brother. Arthur heard Morgana gasp, and rightly so, for Merlin looked terrible.
He was pale, paler than normal, and his black bangs were slick with sweat. There was a small pool of blood under Merlin's head, and his breathing was strained.
Arthur forced himself to blink, keeping the tears away.
A door slammed open, and Gaius hurried in, his physician's bag in his hands.
"Move out the way!" Gaius barked grimly. Uther stood, a tear in his eye.
"What happened to my son, Gaius?"
The old man bent over Merlin, examining his head gently. Suddenly spotting it, he showed two small wounds on Merlin's neck. "He's been bitten, my lord. Judging from the symptoms, it seems to have happened early this morning."
Arthur bit his lip. More than twelve hours, Merlin had been laying here, suffering.
Merlin took a large, raspy breath, the sound loud in the despairing silence that followed Gaius declaration.
"Can you cure him?" Morgana's small, frightened voice broke the silence.
Gaius looked at her, his face grim. "I need to get him more comfortable."
Uther bent down in silence, and picked up his son, bridal style.
Arthur tried hard not to sob as Merlin's head lolled to the other side, a reminder that his brother didn't even have the strength to keep his head still. Morgana put Merlin's hand on his stomach, and kissed his forehead before Uther started out the door, as quiet as a mouse.
Gaius followed, equally as silent.
Morgana let out a sob, before burying herself into Arthur's side.
"I thought I'd lose you," Morgana murmured, "But then it was over, and now we might lose Merlin!"
Arthur wrapped an arm around his foster sister, a rare show of affection. "He'll be fine. The antidote can cure him."
Morgana stepped back, fire in her eyes. "Ewan died, and he got the antidote."
Arthur just shook his head, not able to stop the tears from falling.
Arthur walked into Merlin's chambers to find Gaius still examining the prince. Uther had taken a chair and was sitting by his side, while Will was staring in shock.
Arthur stood next to Uther, watching the slow rise and fall of his brother. His chest suddenly stuttered, and Gaius opened Merlin's mouth to let him breathe more easily.
Morgana sniffled at the sight. Finally Uther had had enough. "Gaius, tell me what's going on."
The physician looked up. "He has a slow pulse, raging fever, a possible concussion, and his lungs are filling up with fluid. He will die within the hour if he doesn't receive the antidote."
Uther growled. "Where is the antidote?"
"I don't have enough left over. I'll need the snake heads that Arthur cut off in his battle against Valiant."
"I'll get it," Arthur volunteered quickly. He needed to get out.
"I'll help you." Morgana decided, and Arthur didn't argue.
Uther looked at them with something close to fear. "I ordered them to be burnt. If you go now, you might be able to catch them."
Arthur took one more glance at Merlin, realizing this could be the last time he saw him alive, and then marched out the door, Morgana closely behind.
"Where is the fire?" Morgana asked breathlessly, jogging along with Arthur.
"Usually in the courtyard. Anything magical gets burnt there."
The two ran, and arrived there at the same moment something burst into flames.
"STOP!" Arthur shouted, holding out a hand. The guard halted, a snake head in his hand.
"I need that snake," the prince said, gasping for air.
The guard glanced at his friend before shrugging, and handing the snake head over.
"Did you burn the other?" Morgana asked impatiently.
The guard nodded, unsure if he had done something wrong. Morgana turned to Arthur. "Do you think one will be enough?"
Arthur looked grimly at the dead snake head, its glassy eyes seeming to taunt him.
"It has to be."
The two took off again.
"Gaius!"
The physician looked up, holding his hand out for the head. Arthur gave it and then walked over to Merlin.
The few minutes it had taken Arthur and Morgana to get the snake head, Merlin had gotten worse. There were dark circles under his eyes, his forehead was dripping with sweat, and every breath he took was raspy, sounding like it could be his last. Uther was pacing, glancing at his son every now and then.
Everyone let Gaius work silently, wondering if the antidote would be made in time. Just as Arthur was ready to smash something, Gaius held up a bottle. "This is the antidote."
Taking out a swab, he applied the antidote and rubbed it on the prince's lips, letting the extra drip into his mouth.
Everyone watched, praying that the antidote would work. Gaius worked until the bottle was empty, but Merlin hadn't moved.
"Is it working?" Uther asked.
"Only time will tell, sire." Gaius dipped a cloth into a basin and put it on Merlin's forehead, hoping to cool him down.
The waiting was the worst moment of Arthur's life. They had all fallen into a restless sleep when something woke Arthur up. He yawned, and then quickly checked his brother. Merlin was still breathing, and the longer Arthur stared at him, the more Merlin seemed to get better. Gaius had resorted to watching Merlin as well. They met each other's eyes silently. Gaius was like a second father to Arthur, but Merlin was more close to the old physician than he was. Gaius had been the one who had 'trained' Merlin as best he could with his magic, making sure Merlin could control it. It was no wonder that Gaius felt as if Merlin was like a son he never had.
Arthur suddenly jolted. He was sure that he had seen Merlin's eyelids fluttering. Leaning closer, Arthur whispered, "Merlin?"
Another flutter. Arthur glanced at Gaius. "Merlin?" He said, not caring if he woke Uther or Morgana up.
A soft groan from the prince, and then blue eyes peeking up at Arthur.
Arthur grinned, relieved that his brother was awake. He would not die. The antidote was working. Uther sat up, tears in his eyes. Morgana too, had woken up and was smiling as if it were her birthday.
Merlin's eyes suddenly widened and he tried to sit up. "Valiant!"
Gaius held Merlin down. "Valiant is dead. Arthur is alright."
Merlin kept trying to sit up, confused. "Dead? But he was going to fight Arthur and then-" Merlin paused, his eyes wide again. "Then he pulled me into his chambers."
Arthur frowned. "What did Valiant do, Merlin?"
Merlin looked up, spotting his brother. "Arthur!"
Arthur pushed his brother down, and Merlin didn't protest. "You're weak, you need to rest."
Uther watched the interaction, and then kissed Merlin's forehead softly. "Sleep, Merlin. Everything is alright."
Merlin's eyes danced with confusion, but they were growing heavy, and soon he was pulled under by the lull of sleep.
Morgana sobbed, hugging Arthur again.
"It will take time, but Merlin should be up and about in a little bit." Gaius started to pack his bag, leaving the cloth and basin. "However, he is still sick, and somebody needs to tend to his fever."
Will suddenly made himself known. "I can do that. You all should sleep and get ready for the banquet tonight."
Arthur's eyes widened as he realized he had completely forgotten about that.
They were all reluctant to leave Merlin, but Will and Gaius shooed them out. Arthur smiled as the door closed behind them. Merlin would be alright.
At the feast that night, relief left Uther, Arthur and Morgana insanely happy.
"My honorable guests," Uther started, the crowd quiet as they listened. "I give you Prince Arthur, your champion."
Arthur nodded at everyone as they clapped for him. Walking over to Morgana, he held out his arm. "My lady,"
"My champion," she said in return.
"I hope your'e not disappointed Valiant's escorting you."
"After what he did to Merlin? Turns out he's not champion material."
Arthur nodded in agreement. "That was some tournament final."
"Tell me about it. It's not everyday that a girl gets to save her prince."
Arthur scrunched up his nose. "Uh, I wouldn't exactly say I needed saving. I'm sure I would have thought of something."
"So, you're too proud to admit you're saved by a girl?"
"Because," Arthur said, sounding like it was obvious. "I wasn't."
"You know what? Merlin's right. You are an arrogant prat, and if it wasn't for what he did to Merlin, I would wish Valiant was escorting me." Morgana glared at him.
"Me too. Then I wouldn't have to listen to you."
"Fine."
"Fine."
Morgana walked away, angry.
Arthur growled. "Can you believe it?" he said to Will, who was passing by. Gaius had ordered him to take a break, so Will had come to the feast. "Morgana says she saved me."
Will shrugged. "I wasn't there. It did sound like she saved you though."
"Like I needed any help?" Arthur suddenly realized it was Will he was talking to.
"How's Merlin?"
Will smiled. "He's doing a lot better. His fever broke, and he woke up a lot. Gaius says he should be up in a few days."
Arthur smiled, relieved. Everything had turned out to be okay. Valiant was dead, he had won the tournament, and Merlin would be annoying him with his magic soon enough. Arthur walked over to buy some drinks, resorting to enjoying himself as best as he could. After all, he had to enjoy himself for Merlin, so he could tell him everything. And maybe, he might complain about Morgana too.
A/N: the part where Merlin gets bit by a snake is inspired by AGirlByAnyOtherName on , a VERY good whump writer.